Cat-carrying cases

Here’s the type of case we recommend, and the reasons why we think it’s the best.

If we are shipping a kitten to you, we can supply one of these cases (brand new) at cost. Plus we will modify it as shown below for the safety of your kitten.

We start with an IATA-approved carrying case approximately 600mm x 400mm x 400mm. This is much larger than a kitten needs, but you won’t have to buy a larger one when taking your fully grown cat on one of those occasional visits to the vets.

This airline-approved pet carrying case is a good start, but it still needs modification.

What makes this case airline-approved?

There are no opening hatches apart from the front door (which the airline will seal).

There are six steel machine screws with nuts holding the top and bottom together, in addition to the usual quick-release clasps

But, this still isn’t good enough, because the mesh on the door is 25mm x 25mm which will allow a kitten to stick an entire leg through the door. So, we modify the doors, by overlaying them with 10mm x 10mm steel mesh as shown below.

Modified carrying case with 10mm x 10mm steel mesh and a water funnel.

We also add a water funnel to the door. Cats can travel quite well for several hours without food or water, but we always place a notice on the case saying that the cat should be given water at a specific time, in case the flight is delayed.

And we provide something soft for the kitten to lie on.

The cases we use also have a very secure plunger-style latch, which you can operate with one hand.

Plunger style latch is best for cat carrying cases.

Tips for using a cat carrying case

If you know you’ll be transporting your kitten or cat, bring the case out a day or two early and leave the door open so they can wander in and out and get used to the space.

Place a blanket or towel in the case, ideally one that your cat has used before.

You might like to add a small and familiar chew toy.

Do not force your cat into the case. Its own curiosity should be all the encouragement it needs.

After the cat has entered the case a few times, close the door for brief periods and praise your cat. Maybe offer a small treat.

It the cat protests at being locked in, try to allow it to calm down before opening the door.

Gradually lengthen the time your cat spends in the case until it is content to remain inside.

Periodically check that all the fasteners on your case are tight.

Watch carefully when latching the door to ensure that the upper and lower pins engage fully. This is a frequent issue with new cases.